Preacher Billy Graham is admitted to U.S. hospital

ASHEVILLE, North Carolina — A spokesman for the Rev. Billy Graham has been taken to a hospital near his home in North Carolina for treatment of his lungs.

Spokesman A. Larry Ross said Graham was admitted Wednesday to Mission Hospital in Asheville with congestion, a cough and a slight fever.

A pulmonologist at the hospital said in a news release that Graham is being tested for possible pneumonia. The release said Graham was alert, smiling and waving to staff.

The 93-year-old evangelist served as an adviser to presidents and toured the world for his famous crusades. He now spends much of his time at home near Asheville and occasionally meets with Christian leaders and old friends.